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Background and Aims: Idiopathic osteosclerosis is an asymptomatic local growth of cortical bone and is discovered incidentally on panoramic radiographs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis and its radiographic features in panoramic images of patients referred to the Department of Maxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Arak University of Medical Sciences (Iran) in 2022-2023. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 460 panoramic images from the radiology department of Arak Faculty of Dentistry were randomly selected and analyzed. The demographic information of patients, frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis, location, and also its relationship with adjacent teeth in terms of proximity to lamina dura and periodontal ligament and radiographic features in terms of size and morphology were evaluated. The data were analyzed using the SPSS24 software. Results: Panoramic images of 460 patients (266 men and 194 women) with an average age of 38.12 (11.75) years were evaluated. The frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis was 6.1% (28 images). 92.9% of the lesions were in the lower jaw and 46.4% of them were near the premolar teeth. In 39.3% of the cases, the lesion was adjacent to the periodontal ligament and laminadora of the tooth. In 3.6% of the cases, it was associated with a small displacement of the adjacent tooth, and 17.9% was associated with tooth root resorption. According to the results, there was no correlation between the incidence of this lesion with age and gender (P>0.05). Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, the frequency of idiopathic osteosclerosis in the patients referred to Arak dental school was reported as 6.1%. Most of these lesions were observed in the back of the lower jaw and thus, it is important to be able to distinguish this lesion from the radiopaque lesions of the jaw which need treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Strong bond between the ceramic brackets and ceramic veneers has an important role in cosmetic treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of aging on the shear bond strength (SBS) of ceramic brackets bonded to zirconia after surface preparation by Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd: YAG) laser or sandblasting with alumina. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 24 zirconia blocks and these blocks were randomly divided into two groups for surface preparation and each was sub-divided into three time intervals. Surface preparation was done by sandblasting with alumina: in SG1 (Immediately after sandblasting), SG2 (2 weeks after sandblasting), and SG3 (3 months after sandblasting) groups. For the Nd: YAG laser (1/5W, 20Hz, 10s) with non-contact mode: in LG4 (Immediately after laser), LG5 (2 weeks after laser), and LG6 (3 months after laser) groups. The ceramic brackets were bonded to the zirconia blocks. The SBS and adhesive remnant index (ARI) were evaluated and compared among test groups. Dara were analyzed using Mann Whitney test. Results: There was no significant difference between the SBS of SG1 and LG4 (P=0.430), SG2 and LG5 (P=0.382) and SG3 and LG6 (P=0.326) groups. LG4 group showed the highest shear bond strength. After aging (2 weeks and 3 months), the laser groups showed higher SBS. There was no significant difference in the ARI between SG1 and LG4 (P=0.220), SG2 and LG5 (P=0.154), SG3 and LG6 (P=0.527) groups. Conclusion: No significant difference was observed between the Nd: YAG laser and sandblasted groups in terms of SBS and ARI over time. Therefore, Nd: YAG laser could be used as a surface treamnet method in Zirconia crowns for bonding to ceramic brackets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. More than 1 million colorectal cancers (CRC) are diagnosed annually. This cancer is the cause of 600,000 deaths, and many of these deaths can be reduced by screening. Colonoscopy is the best screening method and tool to diagnose CRC, but it causes anxiety and worry in patients. In addition, no appropriate tool has so far been introduced for assessing anxiety in these patients. Accordingly, the present study aimed to design and psychometrically evaluate a tool for assessing anxiety in patients undergoing colonoscopy. Methods. This methodological study used a descriptive-cross-sectional approach to design a psychometric questionnaire. To this end, 106 patients participated in this research, and the questionnaire was completed online. The validity of the list and the analysis of its main components were determined through exploratory factor analysis with varimax rotation and confirmatory factor analysis. The reliability of the tool was also checked with Cronbach’s alpha. Results. Overall, 20 terms of the questionnaire were examined by exploratory analysis, and 5 factors explained 57.76% of the total variance. The internal consistency of the tool with Cronbach’s alpha was 0.91. Conclusion. The findings of the research revealed that the tool for assessing anxiety in patients undergoing colonoscopy with 20 items and 5 factors has adequate validity and reliability and can be used to assess the anxiety of colonoscopy patients. Practical Implications. The results of this research can change policies in the field of treatment to reduce the anxiety of colonoscopy patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. One of the common treatments for prostate cancer is radical prostatectomy, which is performed in different ways. One of the advantages of the nerve bundle preservation method is better exposure, decrease in rectal damage the lower rectum. In addition, the possibility of a positive margin is less. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the results of using the high anterior release (HAR) technique in radical open prostatectomy surgery. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, after examining patients and their entry into the study and obtaining their medical records, questions were asked to assess erectile function and urinary incontinence. The prostate-specific antigen level was checked before and after the operation. In addition, the average surgical time, blood loss, and hospitalization time were evaluated. Finally, the data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical analysis program, version 19. Results. In this study, 102 patients underwent radical prostatectomy, with an average age of 62.33 years. About 56.9% of patients had stage t2b. During the 6-month follow-up after surgery, 70.5% of patients had complete urinary continence. Data analysis demonstrated that there is a direct relationship between urinary incontinence, with a history of radiotherapy (P<0.001), and the stage of the disease (P=0.019). After surgery, 61.8% of patients were satisfied with the erection function . Conclusion. The results of this study revealed that urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are relatively common complications of this surgery. However, compared to other similar studies, the incidence of these two complications is lower. Practical Implications. Urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are relatively prevalent complications of radical prostatectomy surgery using the HAR technique. Nonetheless, the incidence of these two complications is lower compared to other similar studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is one of the most important public health issues, and the evaluation and improvement of COVID-19 health literacy and self-care can be effective in preventing its spread. This study was conducted to investigate the health literacy of COVID-19 and its relationship with self-care among the health ambassadors of Urmia in 2021. Methods. In this descriptive-analytical study, 400 health ambassadors of Urmia were selected using the cluster random sampling method. The data-gathering tool was a questionnaire, including questions about self-care, COVID-19 health literacy, and demographic information. The data were analyzed by SPSS 19 using analysis of variance and regression tests. Results. COVID-19-related health literacy was reported to be at a good level (63.5%) in most health ambassadors. In addition, it had a statistically significant relationship with the level of education and economic status. Similarly, there was a significant relationship between self-care and demographic characteristics such as age, gender, level of education, occupation, and economic status (P>0.05). On the other hand, according to data analysis results, with an increase in health literacy related to COVID-19, regression modeling could predict 22% of self-care behaviors in the participants of the present study. Conclusion. Overall, there is a need for interventions by healthcare professionals for training to increase health literacy related to COVID-19 that results in self-care and adoption of health behaviors in health ambassadors, given the significance of COVID)19-related health literacy and its effects on self-care in these ambassadors. Practical Implications. The findings of this study can be presented to the Deputy of Health and healthcare providers so that actions can be taken to promote health literacy and self-care and prevent similar epidemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Anxiety is independently associated with severe quality of life impairment and severe postmenopausal symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of early postmenopausal symptoms, sexual function, and serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) with anxiety scores. Methods. In this cross-sectional descriptive correlational study, 117 eligible postmenopausal women aged 50-60 years with mild to moderate anxiety were selected using convenience sampling method. The Beck Anxiety Inventory, Green's Menopause Symptoms Scale, and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were completed. Data were analyzed using Pearson and Spearman tests and linear regression model. Results. By adjusting the confounding variables, the total score of FSFI and its sub)domains had no statistically significant relationship with Beck Anxiety Inventory score (P>0.05). The total score of Greene Climacteric Scale (r=0.535; P<0.001) and sub-domains of anxiety (r=0.448; P<0.001), depression (r=0.344; P<0.001), and physical symptoms (r=0.509; P<0.001), as well as the serum level of DHEA (r=-0.754; P<0.001) had statistically significant relationship with Beck Anxiety Inventory score. The total score of Greene Climacteric Scale and its sub-domains, except for the sexual dimension, and DHEA level could predict anxiety score. Conclusion. The score of menopausal symptoms and its subdomains, except for the sexual domain and DHEA level, could predict the anxiety score. The findings of this study show the importance of the relationship between early menopause symptoms and serum level of dihydroepiandrosterone with anxiety score in postmenopausal women. Practical Implications. It is suggested to conduct a more comprehensive study considering a wider sample size and socio-cultural factors and barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of aerobic)resistance training on the population of cardiac multipotent cells, thickness, and diameter of the ventricular through the C-Kit pathway of male rats during the growth stages. Methods. Overall, 30 male Wistar rats in three age groups of 2 (n = 10), 8 (n = 10), and 96 (n = 10) weeks were accidentally divided into exercise and control groups. Resistance training programs (resistance ladder, 3 days a week) and aerobics (treadmill running, 3 days a week) were performed for 6 weeks. Hematoxylin-Eosin staining was done the heart tissue and histological images were prepared. Afterward, C-Kit gene expression was examined by the real-time polymerase chain reaction method. The statistical method of one-way analysis of variance (P ≥ 0.05) and Tukey’s test were used at a significant level (P ≥ 0.01). Results. The trained neonatal group had higher values in heart weight to body weight index, and the trained neonatal and trained young adult groups had higher values in left ventricular thickness (P ≥ 0.01). The decrease in left ventricular internal diameter in the trained young adult group was significant compared to the control group (P ≥ 0.01). There was a significant increase in C-Kit gene expression in trained young adult and trained old groups (P ≥ 0.01). Conclusion. Aerobic-resistance training can be an effective stimulus for increasing the number of cardiac stem cells and creating structural adaptations of the heart, including increasing thickness and ventricular diameter in neonatal and young adult groups. Practical Implications. Participation in aerobic-resistance training programs leads to the improvement of the cardiac structure and an increase in cardiac stem cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder. Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent disease affecting these individuals from middle age onwards and leading to numerous problems for individuals, their families, and their caregivers. To develop Alzheimer's prevention strategies for Down syndrome, it is of utmost importance to understand the factors that contribute to its development, such as psychological foundations. The present study aimed to analyze personality and lifestyle in slow-paced adults with Down syndrome with and without Alzheimer's disease. Material & Methods: This qualitative research was conducted based on a descriptive phenomenological design. The research population consisted of adults with Down syndrome (60 cases without Alzheimer's and 10 subjects with Alzheimer's), their parents, and caregivers in Kermanshah province in 2023. In this regard, data collection was carried out through access to medical records of individuals in the Welfare Organization and also semi-structured interviews with these individuals who were purposefully selected until reaching the stage of theoretical saturation. Data analysis was performed using the Clausi method, and the main and sub-themes were identified. For final validation, the criteria of validity and reliability were used. Results:The findings from the data analysis resulted in the extraction of 3 main themes (social-psychotic-coping skills), 14 sub-themes in personality dimension, and 9 main themes (sleep-physical activity-occupation-physical health-weight control and nutrition-personal hygiene-smoking and alcohol consumption-leisure time-doing things independently) and 21 sub-themes in the lifestyle dimension. Discussion & Conclusion: The results of this study highlighted the role and importance of a healthy lifestyle and adaptive personality characteristics in preventing Alzheimer's disease in slow-paced adults with Down syndrome. Therefore, it is suggested that preventive and awareness-raising programs in these two dimensions be developed and implemented by experts and official centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Protection motivation theory is one of the most effective theories in predicting preventive behaviors. It first emphasizes motivation and then the development of adaptive skills. This theory is used to understand and predict health intentions and behaviors that protect a person from traumatic events. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of group training based on protection motivation theory in the lifestyle, negative thoughts, and dysfunctional attitudes of depressed people. Material & Methods: In this study, we adopted a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design. The statistical population was all clients suffering from mild to moderate depression who visited the Ghaemshahr Help Center in the spring of 1402. Considering that 15-20 people are used in group training, a number of 40 people in two experimental groups and controls were selected by the available sampling method and answered the health-promoting lifestyle questionnaires of Walker and colleagues (1987), Weisman and Beck's dysfunctional attitudes by Wiseman and Beck (1978), and Kendall and Hollon's (1980) negative self-concepts. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance, multivariate covariance analysis, and univariate covariance analysis. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The results of the analysis of covariance demonstrated that the mean scores of lifestyles, negative spontaneous thoughts, and ineffective attitudes in experimental and control groups had a statistically significant difference of less than 1% (P=0.01). Moreover, the post-test mean scores of negative self-inflicted thoughts and ineffective attitudes of subjects in the experimental group under self-protection motivation training decreased compared to the control group who were not under training. Furthermore, the effect size for group membership for lifestyle was equal to (Eta=0.83), for negative spontaneous thoughts, it was equal to (Eta=0.69), and for ineffective attitudes, it was equal to (Eta=0.62). Discussion & Conclusion: Self-protection motivation training is effective in improving lifestyle and reducing negative self-esteem and ineffective attitudes of depressed people. According to the nature of the protection motivation theory, it is suggested to be used to improve the lifestyle, negative thoughts, and ineffective attitude of depressed people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nurses with intelligence and moral reasoning can perform well and be effective in their relationships with colleagues, patients, and companions. The clinical competence of nurses is the primary concern of healthcare systems. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between moral intelligence, moral reasoning, and clinical competence of nurses. Material & Methods: This descriptive-analytical correlational study was conducted on 110 nurses who were selected via convenience sampling in the teaching hospitals of Ilam in 2022. Data collection tools were demographic characteristics form, Link and Keel's moral intelligence, the Nursing Clinical Competence Questionnaire by Liu et al., and the Nursing Dilemma Test by Chrisham. Data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 16) using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The level of statistical significance was 0.05. Results: The majority of subjects were women (54.5%) with a bachelor's degree in nursing (87.3%), official employment (61.8%), with a work experience of 1-5 years (50%), and mean age of 30.98±5.83 years. The mean scores of moral intelligence, moral reasoning, and clinical competence were reported as 157.59±26.60, 36.51±16.17, and 136.65±46.08, respectively. There was a direct and significant correlation between moral intelligence and clinical competence (r=0.517; P=0.001), moral intelligence and moral reasoning (r=0.444; P=0.001), as well as moral reasoning and clinical competence (r=0.802; P=0.001). Discussion & Conclusion: Considering the direct and significant relationship between the variables, it is recommended that nurses' awareness of moral intelligence, moral reasoning, and clinical competency be raised through clinical training courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Endometriosis (EMS) is a female reproductive system disease in which uterine-like cells grow in other areas of the body and outside the uterus. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a major role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix and the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The present study is the first to investigate the possible association of MMP-2 (rs7201) and MMP-9 (rs17576) genetic variants with susceptibility to EMS in Iran. Material & Methods: This case-control study was performed on 100 healthy control women and 100 patients with EMS. The MMP-2 and MMP-9 genotypes were determined using the Tetra amplification-refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR) Technique. Data were analyzed in SPSS software. Results: There were statistically significant differences in the distribution of MMP-9 AG (OR: 4.11, 95% CI: 2.13-7.91, P<0.001) and GG (OR: 11.33, 95% CI: 4.23-30.3; P <0.001) genotypes between the control and patient groups. The MMP-9 G allele was associated with an increased risk of endometriosis (P<0.001). Moreover, a significant association was detected between MMP-2 rs7201 polymorphism and EMS. MMP-2 AC genotype had a protective effect on endometriosis (OR: 0.27. 95% CI: 0.15-49%; P<0.001), and the MMP-2 A allele was associated with decreased risk of endometriosis (P<0.001). Discussion & Conclusion: As evidenced by the results of this study, MMP-9 rs17576 and MMP-2 rs7201 polymorphisms were associated with EMS in the studied population in Iran. Further studies with larger samples of different ethnicities need to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Asymmetrical gait mechanics after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are associated with the development of post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis. Current measures of gait mechanics have focused on peak magnitudes of knee kinematics, kinetics, and joint contact forces; nonetheless, they have seldom considered the plantar pressure and muscular frequency content in individuals with ACLR and pronate feet (PF). The present study aimed to compare ACLR and PF with healthy controls during walking. Material & Methods: The present study was conducted based on a quasi-experimental and laboratory design. The sample of this study comprised 13 people with ACLR and PF and 13 subjects from the healthy group. The mean age scores of patients in the two groups of healthy and sick participants were 22.9±4.1 and 23.2±4.5 years, respectively. During the test, subjects walked barefoot on an 18-m runway. Peak plantar pressure variables in both groups were recorded by a foot scan system (sampling rate: 300 Hz). The electromyography activity of the tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius medialis, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, rectus femoris, biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and gluteus medius were recorded during walking. Results:The results demonstrated that the peak midfoot region plantar pressure values (P=0.018) were higher in the ACLR/PF group than in the healthy group during walking. In addition, the results highlighted a significant difference in the muscle frequency content of the rectus femoris (P=0.012, d=0.68) and vastus latelarlis (P=0.042) during the loading response and push-off phase in the ACLR/PF group compared to the healthy group during walking. Discussion & Conclusion: Peak plantar pressure values at the midfoot region and rectus femoris and vastus lateralis muscular frequency content in the ACLR/PF group differed from that of the healthy group during walking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of functionalized metal nanoparticles against cancer cells has gained assiduous attention. This study aimed to assess the inhibitory activity of iron oxide nanoparticles coated with glucose and conjugated with coumarin (Fe3O4@GluCoumarin) on breast cancer cell line, as well as the expression of the caspase-8 and caspase-9 genes. Material & Methods: The physical and chemical properties of nanoparticles were evaluated using FT-IR, XRD, EDS-map, and electron microscope imaging. The toxicity of the synthesized nanoparticles was determined using the MTT assay, and the 50% inhibitory dose (IC50) was calculated. Moreover, the effect of nanoparticles on apoptosis induction was investigated by measuring the expression level of the caspase 8 and 9 genes and flow cytometry analysis. Statistical analyses were performed in SPSS software. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to assess significant differences between nanoparticle-treated and control groups. A p-value of less than 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. Results: The synthesis of Fe3O4@Glu-Coumarin nanoparticles was confirmed by physicochemical tests, including FT-IR, XRD, EDS-mapping, and electron microscope imaging. The nanoparticles had dimensions of 25 to 50 nm and contained Fe, O, and C elements. The treatment of MCF-7 cells with nanoparticles caused a significant decrease in the survival of cancer cells, and the IC50 was 93μg/ml. The exposure of cells to the nanoparticles caused a marked increase in the expression of caspases 8 and 9 by 2.6 and 2.9 folds, respectively, compared to the control group. In addition, the frequency of apoptotic cells after treatment with the nanoparticles increased from 2.21% to 84%.. Discussion & Conclusion: The results of this study pointed out that Fe3O4@GluCoumarin increased the expression of the caspases 8 and 9 genes in breast cancer cells and, as a result, can activate the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oxidative stress is involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis. It seems that the intake of exogenous antioxidants may be effective in preventing, treating, and reducing the complications of these diseases. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid pigment with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting the nervous system. The present study aimed to assess the effect of astaxanthin on the amount of malondialdehyde and the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase) after oxidative stress with hydrogen peroxide in the human neuroblastoma cell line BE (2)-C. Material & Methods: Human neuroblastoma cells were treated in this study with different concentrations of astaxanthin (25, 50, and 100 μM) or 50 μM ascorbic acid (positive control) for 24 h. To induce oxidative stress, they were exposed to hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 400 μM for 2 h. There was also a control group without treatment and without inducing oxidative stress. The amount of malondialdehyde as an index of oxidative stress and the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase were measured using calorimetric methods. Results: The obtained results demonstrated that the malondialdehyde concentration was significantly reduced in the groups treated with different concentrations of astaxanthin and ascorbic acid compared to the hydrogen peroxide group (P<0.05). The activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase also increased significantly in these groups compared to the group with oxygenated water (P<0.05). Discussion & Conclusion: Astaxanthin appears to counteract the oxidative stress caused by hydrogen peroxide by lowering malondialdehyde levels and increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes in BE (2)C cells, thereby protecting the cells from the impact of oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Anxiety is one of the most important issues in the dental environment for children. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of music on the level of anxiety and cooperation of children during dental treatment. Materials and Methods: In this study 58 children aged 6 to 8 years were randomly divided into two groups: the intervention group (music played) and the control group (no music played). Children's anxiety was assessed using the Venham Picture Test and Frankel Behavior Rating Scale, and their heart rate was also measured. Results: The results showed that in the intervention group, the level of anxiety based on the Venham Picture Test and Frankel Behavior Rating Scale was significantly lower. Additionally, the heart rate of children in this group was lower during the treatment (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, the use of music as a non-pharmacological method can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and improving the cooperation of children in the dental environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Evaluating the attitudes and beliefs of different classes of society is very important in attracting donors. This study aimed to evaluate the attitude of students of Alborz University of Medical Sciences regarding blood donation and investigate the obstacles in this field. Materials and Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 330 students of different fields of Alborz University of Medical Sciences in 2023. A questionnaire containing demographic questions and main research questions (12 questions to evaluate the causes of blood donation-7 questions to evaluate the reasons for not donating again in donors - 20 questions to evaluate the factors preventing blood donation in non-donors-12 questions about the general attitude to blood donation in donors and non-donors) were used to collect data. Data analysis was done with SPSS21 software and descriptive statistics. Results The average age was 22.85 ± 0.26 years and only 11.5% had history of donating blood. The most important motivating factors include altruistic causes (100%), feeling of responsibility (96.9%), moral and personal commitment (87.5%), participation in social activities (75%) and helping patients (71.9%). The most important reasons preventing blood donation are fear of dizziness and weakness (77.2% and 64.1%, respectively), lack of proper information (67%), fear of hand burning and hematoma (42.4%) and fear of anemia (47.8%). Conclusions Despite the low donation rate, most students had a positive attitude towards blood donation. In order to encourage students to donate blood, the necessary information should be provided through holding appropriate educational programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Umbilical cord blood is a valuable source of stem cells used in transplants to treat various diseases including leukemia, lymphoma and genetic disorders. However, cord blood clotting during the collection process can reduce sample quality and quantity and impact its efficacy in cord blood banking. This article aims to predict pre-collection cord blood clotting in donors using advanced machine learning techniques. Materials and Methods In this retrospective study, data was gathered using 928127 samples available in the fetal cord blood bank, and with using supervised machine learning classification algorithms, including decision tree, naïve Bayes, K-Nearest Neighbors, Support vector machine, Random forest, Majority voting and Multilayer perceptron, prediction of cord blood clotting was performed on the Royan cord blood bank database and their performance was compared using evaluation metrics such as Accuracy, Precision, Recall, and F1 Score. Results In this study, the algorithm accuracy of Decision Tree was 0.80, Naive Bayes was 0.63, KNearest Neighbors was 0.83, Support Vector Machine was 0.65, Random Forest was 0.84, Majority Voting Classifier was 0.81, and Multilayer Perceptron was 0.74. Conclusions In this study, the performance of Random Forest and K-Nearest Neighbors algorithms demonstrated the best accuracy showing that machine learning algorithms can predict prenatal cord blood clotting with high accuracy which can help prevent sampling of clotted specimens in order to reduce costs and storage problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Human lymphotropic virus type I mainly infects lymphocytes. For the detection of this virus, mainly nucleated cells are evaluated. Due to the short longevity of cells, sample collection is a challenge. The purpose of the study was to investigate the presence of HTLV-1 virus in genomic DNA released from cells in plasma and to determine its viral load in Western blotpositive blood donors Materials and Methods In this descriptive study, 30 HTLV-1 positive Western blot donors were evaluated. Using an extraction kit, genomic DNA was extracted from plasma and isolated PBMC using Ficol. A nested PCR test was used to confirm the presence of HTLV-1 virus. A real-time PCR quantitative test by Sybergreen method was used to determine the amount of virus load Results The average age of subjects was 42.9 ± 13.5 years; 93.3% of them were male and 6.6% female. LTR gene region was detected by nested PCR method in 80% of plasma and 100% of PBMC samples. The median viral loads in plasma and PBMC were 1.90 Copies/µL and 20 copies/106 PBMC, respectively. Conclusions To detect the HTLV-1 virus by molecular method, the HTLV-1 provirus DNA released from cells, in the plasma can be used when peripheral blood mononuclear cells are unavailable. It has also been observed that the virus load in the plasma of asymptomatic carriers is approximately 10 times lower than in PBMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Covid-19 was declared a public health emergency by World Health Organization in jan 2020. Public fear, quarantine, and shutdown created an unpredictable situation for healthcare services worldwide, which created a great challenge for blood transfusion services. Materials and Methods In a cross-sectional study, the data about the request, distribution, and waste of blood products were collected and compared in two time periods (March and February 2019 and March and February 2020) before and at the time or Covid-19 pandemic with test of proportion. The poisson regression test was used to compare the amount of waste, request, and distribution of blood products in two consecutive years. Results The request for red blood cells before the pandemic was 920,591 units, but it decreased by 18% to 754,052 units, and the distribution of red blood cells decreased by 17.3% at the time of pandemic, because of the cancellation of surgeries and general quarantine. The RBC wastage decreased from 25878 to 12837 units, a reduction of 50.3% (p = 0.03). However, the demand for leukoreduced red blood cells rose by 10.8%, yet wastage also increased by 8.8%. Waste in red blood cell bags for infants quadrupled during the pandemic. Plasma requests decreased by 4.9%, with a 7.2% decline in distribution, yet plasma waste increased by 6.8%. At pandemic time, Platelet requests decreased by 19%, distribution decreased by 15.6%, and waste decreased by 32.3%. Conclusions During the COVID-19 pandemic, the waste of RBCs and platelets was reduced. The distribution-to-demand ratio remained relatively stable throughout the pandemic time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives This study looked at the frequency of HLA alleles and their genetic diversity in specific Iranian ethnic groups. This is important for the successful transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells. Materials and Methods In this descriptive study, HLA-DRB1 alleles were determined in low resolution level for donors using the PCR-SSP method. By using the HLA lab data and the stem cell donors' information in Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, the ethnic and HLA information from the Gilak (n = 510, 24.70%), Lur (n = 465, 22.53%), Kurd (n = 719, 34.84%), and Arab (n = 370, 17.93%) ethnicities were collected and analyzed. The relationship between alleles and ethnicity was examined, and a statistically significant relationship (p < 0.05) between the frequency of alleles in the studied ethnic groups was evaluated using the chi-square test. Results The low frequency allelic groups related to HLA-DRB1 were HLA-DRB1*09 (0.6%), HLADRB1*12 (0.8%), and HLA-DRB1*08 (1.6%). Allelic groups with higher frequency included HLA-DRB1*11 (22.7%), HLA-DRB1*03 (11.8%), HLA-DRB1*15 (11.7%), and HLADRB1*04 (11.1%). Among the allelic groups of HLA-DRB1, the frequency of 9 HLA-DRB1 allelic groups showed significant differences in the studied populations. Conclusions The frequency of several allelic groups showed significant differences among Iranian ethnicities. Identifying similarities and differences in the frequency of HLA alleles among Iranian ethnicities can help not only expand the pool of donors in registries but also assist in planning for providing of hematopoietic stem cell donors for patients from different Iranian ethnic groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Patient blood management reduces unnecessary transfusions to improve patients' health. Familiarity of physicians with this program is necessary to improve the outcomes of patients health. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of education on the level of knowledge of residents in medical centers in Yazd, 2022-2023. Materials and Methods The study was a before and after quasi-experimental intervention. 57 medical residents participated. A 20 question questionnaire measured the residents' knowledge level in patient blood management before and after the education. The validity of the questionnaire was measured by a survey of experienced physicians in the management of patient's blood. Reliability with Cronbach's alpha test was 0.8. The data were analyzed using t and Paired-t tests in SPSS 20 software. Results 35 participants (61.4%) were women and 22 (38.6%) were men. Their mean age was 30.58 ± 5.45 years.The average knowledge scores were 9.38 ± 3.77 and 14.01 ± 3.50 before and after education, respectively (p < 0.001). The lowest response rate before instructions pertained to evaluation of patients' anemia before surgery and knowledge of autologous blood usage. The knowledge score had no significant relationship with age, sex, blood prescription history, and medical practice duration. Conclusions Education effectively increased the knowledge of residents. It is suggested to include hold targeted educational programs with emphasis on the areas of anemia management and the use of autologous blood, publish educational guides, and include transfusion medicine and the patient's blood management program in medical education curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gastric ulcer caused by Helicobacter pylori is one of the common diseases in humans, which is transmitted through eating and drinking. This bacterium has the ability to settle in the stomach of some animal species, including dogs and cats. In some cases, the carrier animals are the source of infection for humans. The present study aimed to assess the amount of Helicobacter pylori infection in people having contact with pets, and the pets themselves in Isfahan. Material & Methods: To dis end, 115 fecal samples were taken from the owners of domestic dogs and cats and microbial culture and polymerase chain reaction tests were performed to identify Helicobacter pylori. Results: The results indicated that 36% of domestic dog owners, 80% of domestic cat owners, and 8% of dogs themselves were infected. In addition, no positive cases of infection were observed in cats. In the chi square test (Pearson's test), the infection of domestic dogs and cats showed a significant relationship with the infection of their owners (P<0.05). Discussion & Conclusion: The relatively significant infection of dogs to Helicobacter pylori and the possibility of its transmission to humans makes the observation of health care more important more than ever. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The COVID-19 crisis exerts a marked impact on the quality of life of individuals experiencing grief. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of life quality improvement treatment and emotion-focused therapy on the cognitive flexibility and vitality of individuals affected by grief due to COVID-19. Material & Methods: This research employed a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with two experimental groups and one control group. In 2021, 30 individuals affected by grief were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to three groups: life quality improvement treatment, emotion-focused therapy, and the control group. Data were collected using the Cognitive Flexibility Questionnaire and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. The first experimental group received emotion-focused therapy (Leslie Greenberg, 2012), while the second experimental group received life quality improvement treatment (Fresch, 2006). Data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 27) using analysis of covariance. Results: The results demonstrated that both emotion-focused therapy and therapy based on improving quality of life had a positive effect on behavioral flexibility and social vitality, and the effectiveness of therapy based on improving quality of life on the vitality of bereaved people was more than emotion-focused therapy. Discussion & Conclusion: Considering the effectiveness of both treatments on the flexibility of action and the effectiveness of the treatment to improve the quality of life and vitality of people with grief, psychotherapists can benefit from both two treatments to improve the quality of life and vitality of people with the experience of grief to take. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by Candida yeasts in immunocompromised patients. This study aimed to assess antifungal susceptibility of clinical isolates of Candida species to ketoconazole and nystatin by broth microdilution. Material & Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 377 clinical isolates of Candida species were collected from different regions of Iran. The species were identified using polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The antifungal susceptibility testing of clinical isolates of Candida species to ketoconazole and nystatin was performed using broth microdilution according to standard protocol CLSI (M27-A3 and M27-S4). The standard strain of Candida parapsilosis was used as the quality of control. The minimum inhibitory of concentrations was determined after 24h at 37 ºC. Results: Based on molecular identification, Candida albicans 266 (70.7%), C. krusei 64 (17%), C. parapsilosis 40 (10.7%), and C. tropicalis 6 (1.6%) were identified. The MIC90 and MIC50 values of ketoconazole and nystatin for all isolates were 0.063 µg/ml, 0.031 µg/ml, 2 µg/ml, and 4 µg/ml, respectively. Discussion & Conclusion: As evidenced by the results of this study, antifungal susceptibility testing along with the identification of fungi at the species level would certainly be very useful in selecting primary antifungal agents for treatment, especially in invasive fungal infections. According to our findings, ketoconazole was much more effective on Candida spp. than nystatin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Laser treatment has been highly regarded for removing root canal microorganisms, which are the main causes of treatment failure. This study aimed to assess the effect of 810/980 nm diode laser irradiation on the reduction of Candida albicans (C. albicans) in the root canal. Material & Methods: In this experimental study, 25 healthy single-rooted human teeth were assigned to 20 test groups (two groups of 10), and 5 teeth were assigned to negative control groups. In the first group of the test, a rotary system and in the second group, a rotary laser diode were used to reduce the number of C. albicans. Two microliters of standard microbial suspension were added to each tooth and the samples were incubated (one week, 37°C, aerobic). Samples were taken from the teeth before and after instrumentation and cultured. The results were analyzed using Paired T-Test and T-Test. Results: The results pointed out that the number of yeasts showed a decrease of 92.2% (P<0.001) and 94.5% (P<0.001), respectively, after instrumentation with the mentioned systems compared to before. On the other hand, there was a significant difference (P<0.01) between the rotary system and rotary laser after instrumentation. Discussion & Conclusion: Both methods effectively reduced the number of C. albicans from dental root canals, and the rotary laser system exhibited a significant (P<0.01) reduction in the number of yeasts compared to the rotary method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Red-light violations (RLV) cause thousands of injuries and fatalities annually. All red lights are when all the traffic lights are red and require the evacuation of the intersection. In Iran, drivers disregard their approach’s signals, leading to serious front-to-side collisions. This study examined the violation relationship with traffic parameters and presented strategies for preventing front-toside crashes at signalized intersections. Methods. Field data from 11 signalized intersections in Tabriz with a total of 27 approaches and various traffic and geometric characteristics were used for this study in order to determine factors influencing all RLVs. Results. The findings indicated that the risk of all RLVs increased with the red-light time variable in each approach. In addition, the risk of all RLVs was greater when the width of the approach and the number of vehicles in the first queue were lower. The variable of the left-turn type was also significant in the model and demonstrated that if the left-turn type is permitted, the risk of all RLVs would be higher. Conclusion. The results of this study can be used to prioritize the installation of cameras for crossing the stop line during red lights at intersections. Practical Implications. The location of adjacent traffic lights and pedestrian signal lights should be designed in such a way that they are not in the direct view of drivers and that they do not follow the changes in the adjacent approach traffic lights and start moving when the approach light turns green. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The present study aimed at determining the effect of emotional schema therapy on the irrational beliefs and body image of women with body deformity disorders. Methods. This was semi-experimental research with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population of this research included all women with body deformity disorders who were referred to the psychiatric centers of the 5th district of Tehran in 2021. Using the available sampling method, 30 people were selected from those who were referred to the mentioned centers. The research tools included the Ahvaz Irrational Belief and the Self-Body Multidimensional Questionnaires. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance in SPSS-24. Results. Emotional schema therapy was effective on the irrational beliefs (the total score) and body image of women with body deformity disorders. In addition, emotional schema therapy could affect irrational beliefs in the components of expecting approval from others, avoiding problems, and showing emotional irresponsibility, but it had no significant effect on the component of being helpless against change. Conclusion. According to the findings, emotional schema therapy can be an effective method for correcting the irrational beliefs and body image of women with body deformity disorders. Practical Implications. Based on the results, therapists can use emotional schema therapy as one of the most efficient methods for treating negative beliefs and stereotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Sexual assertiveness is defined as a psychosocial feeling about an individual’s interpretation of how to express her/her feelings in marital relationships. The present study aimed at investigating the effect of sexual assertiveness training on marital satisfaction and happiness of women referring to Tabriz health centers in 2021. Methods. This semi-experimental study was conducted on 66 women of reproductive age, referring to the health centers in Tabriz, Iran. The participants who obtained a Hulbert sexual assertiveness score of less than 33 were randomly assigned to control and intervention groups. The data were collected using an eligibility checklist (inclusion/exclusion criteria), a demographic characteristics questionnaire, the Halbert Index of Sexual Assertiveness (HISA), the Larson Sexual Satisfaction (LSS) scale, and the Marital Happiness Scale (MHS). The educational intervention of HISA was held in three sessions lasting 60-90 minutes. Eventually, the participants completed HISA, LSS, and MHS questionnaires before and after the intervention. Results. The findings of the present study indicated a significant difference between the mean scores of HISA, LSS, and MHS in the post-intervention stage between the two groups (P=0.001). Conclusion. Given the positive effect of sexual assertiveness training on women’s sexual satisfaction and marital happiness, it is recommended that these simple and lowcost educational interventions be considered to improve the mental and sexual status of women. Practical Implications. Sexual assertiveness education program improved sexual satisfaction and marital happiness. It is recommended to apply these simple and low-cost educational interventions to improve the mental and sexual status of women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Child abuse is considered a major public health issue worldwide. The knowledge and attitudes of parents and health service providers are of great importance in the prevention and control of child abuse. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and performance of healthcare providers (HCPs) and healthcare clients (HCCs) regarding child abuse in Tabriz. Methods. This cross-sectional study was performed among 445 HCPs and 390 HCCs in Tabriz in 2021. The samples were selected via random sampling methods, and the information was gathered through a researcher-made questionnaire. In this study, knowledge, attitudes, and performance were considered dependent variables, and demographic variables were regarded as independent variables. Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate the association between dependent and independent variables. The data were analyzed using Stata statistical software (version 17). Results. The mean score of the knowledge, attitudes, and performance of HCPs was 73.2, 87.89, and 85.12, respectively. The mean score of knowledge, attitudes, and performance of HCCs was 58.81, 64.3, and 48.18, respectively. The knowledge and performance of HCPs had a significant relationship with passing a training course in the field of child abuse, jobs, and education, so that passing the training course increased the knowledge score by 3.33 units. In addition, the knowledge and attitude of HCCs were significantly associated with gender, education, and marital status, so that the knowledge score of people with postgraduate education was 8.03 units higher than that of those having a diploma. Conclusion. Overall, the knowledge, attitude, and performance of HCPs toward child abuse were favorable. Therefore, they may have a high potential for detecting child abuse and developing preventive initiatives. Additionally, considering the medium level of knowledge and performance of HCCs toward child abuse, it seems necessary to design family education programs for future parents and launch community-based support services in health centers to prevent child abuse. Practical Implications. The findings of this study can be presented to the policymakers of the Ministry of Health to provide an opportunity to improve the knowledge, attitude, and performance of HCPs and HCCs by developing national guidelines for dealing with child abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Given the fact that there is contradictory evidence regarding the effectiveness of computerized cognitive rehabilitation interventions, the present study intended to compare the potential effects of non-computer and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions on the memory of stroke patients in Tabriz. Methods. To this end, we conducted a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design. The population of the study included individuals who were admitted to a hospital in Tabriz, Iran, for the treatment of stroke. After identifying patients who met the inclusion criteria on the base of purposive sampling,, 45 stroke patients were randomly selected and assigned to two experimental groups (15 in the computer-based group and 15 in the non-computer group) and one control group (15 in the waiting list). To measure the dependent variables of the research, Wechsler’s Digit Span subscale and Folstein’s MMSE were used. The cognitive rehabilitation therapy was performed three times a week for 7 weeks for the non-computer experimental group. The computer-based rehabilitation intervention using Captain’s Log software was delivered during the same period. Results. The results show that both computer-based and non-computer cognitive rehabilitation interventions are equally effective in improving working memory (visual and auditory) of stroke patients. Conclusion. It can be concluded that the unsubstantiated orientation towards the quality and quantity of using new computer-based interventions is not desirable and that the potential of both computer and non-computer interventions should be used to improve the memory of stroke patients. Practical Implications. Based on the findings, specialists can use the potential of both non-computer and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions in improving auditory/visual working memory function of patients with stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: To be successful in root canal therapy, the dentists must be aware of the possible variation in the root canal and should know not only the natural anatomy of the pulp, but also a variety of possible morphologies. Frst of all, the dentists should be familiar with the possible anatomy of the root canal and then with the extraction of organic tissue from pulp chamber and root canal, increasing the chances of treatment success. Therefore, in this study, we decided to investigate the internal anatomy of root canals in the maxillary permanent molar teeth in Khoy city. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, 100 extracted human molars in Khoy city in West Azerbaijan province were collected. In all teeth, the access cavities were prepared, then they were decalcified and colored with India ink and evaluated by clearing technique. Data were collected based on Vertucci's classification which entered into SPSS23 software. The descriptive statistics in the form of numbers and percentages in tables and graphs were used to analyze the data. Results: The most common type observed in the mesiobuccal root of the first molars was type IV by 44%, in distobuccal root was type I by 92%, and in palatal root was type I by 94%. Also, in the mesiobuccal root of the second molars, the most common type was type I by 70%, in distobuccal root was type I by 94%, and in palatal root was type I by 96%. Conclusion: The mesiobuccal root of the first molar had the most variation in the internal anatomy. Also, the most common type of Vertucci in the mesiobuccal root of first molar was type IV and in the other roots of the first and second molar teeth was type I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The family's emotional climate and resilience are among the protective factors against drug use by teenagers. Aim: The present study aimed to predict addiction susceptibility in male adolescents based on the family's emotional climate with the mediation of resilience. Methods: The research method was of the descriptive correlation type and the study's statistical population included all male students of public schools in Tehran in the first and second semesters of 2017-2018, from which 267 people were selected by multi-stage random sampling. The research tools included the Affective Family Climate Scale, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Addiction Susceptibility Questionnaire-Adolescents Version. The data of the present research were analyzed using the structural equation modeling method and Imus software. Results: The present study's results showed that the family's emotional climate (β=-0.468, P=0.001) and resilience (β=-0.246, P=0.001) predict addiction susceptibility in male adolescents negatively and meaningfully. The family's emotional climate predicts addiction susceptibility in male adolescents through the mediation of resilience (β=0.083, P=0.001). Conclusion: The results of the present study emphasize the importance of the role of the family, both in terms of creating a favorable emotional climate and in terms of playing a role, as a suitable model in the emergence of behavior. It is suggested that parents also protect their children from the influence of peers and the use of tobacco and drugs by providing a suitable emotional climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Inefficiency in the process of emotion regulation prevents the emergence of efficient behaviors and appropriate coping responses to the situation in marital relationships by the individual, which seems to be influenced by relational beliefs. Aim: The present study aimed to formulate a structural model of marital satisfaction based on relational beliefs with the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation in married women. Methods: The current research was descriptive-correlation based on the method of structural equations and the statistical population of the present study consisted of all married women between the ages of 30 and 50 who were referred to counseling centers in Tehran in the first six months of 2022, among them 371 women were selected using the random clusters sampling method. The research tools included ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale, Relationship Belief Inventory, and Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. For data analysis, Pearson's correlation method and structural equations were used with SPSS version 22 and AMOS version 24 software. Results: The results of the present study showed there is an indirect and significant relationship between relational beliefs and marital satisfaction with the mediation of positive emotional cognitive regulation (P=0.003, Z=-2.11). There is an indirect and significant relationship between relational beliefs and marital satisfaction with the mediation of negative emotional cognitive regulation (P=0.009, Z=-1.78). Conclusion: The results showed that marital satisfaction is predicted based on communication beliefs with the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation in married women. It is suggested that couple therapists and family therapists pay attention to relational beliefs and cognitive emotion regulation strategies derived from them in counseling and couple therapy to increase marital satisfaction [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Learning progressions in non-linear education consider learners' growth through various learning stages and the significant implications for organizing practices, instructions, and feedback. However, the conventional linear training method has been utilized for many years and offers its own set of advantages. Aim: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of linear and non-linear training on psychological factors related to learning. Methods: In this research, articles related to the research topic from 2000 to 2020 were searched in scientific databases both in Iran and internationally. Initially, 226 study titles were collected based on the research keywords. After applying entry and exit criteria, removing duplicates and irrelevant items, 17 studies were selected as the statistical sample for final analysis. Results: Based on the existing studies and their review, it appears that more research should be conducted with a qualitative approach in this field. Many variables in the real world are qualitative and are challenging to quantify. Additionally, it was observed that both linear and non-linear training approaches have a positive impact on the psychological factors of novice athletes, with most studies favoring the non-linear method. Conclusion: Given the effectiveness of both approaches, future research should focus on determining the specific contributions of each approach to the psychological factors related to learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Emotional regulation strategies are among the effective factors in improving the quality of life and general health of mothers with children with autism and attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder. Aim: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of emotion regulation training on the quality of life of mothers of children with autism and separation anxiety disorder. Methods: The research method was semi-experimental with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population of the research included all mothers with children with autism spectrum disorder and separation anxiety disorder who were referred to the private offices of psychiatrists in Borujerd city in 2019, and 30 of them were selected by convenience sampling. The sample was homogenized and divided into two groups. The participants responded to the Beach Center Family Quality of Life Scale (2006) for the pre-test and post-test. After 8 sessions of 120 minutes of emotion regulation training for the mothers of the experimental groups, statistical analysis of covariance and SPSS-24 software were used to analyze the data. Results: In the present study, the average score of the family quality of life in the post-test stage in the group of mothers of children with autism and children with separation anxiety disorder was significantly higher than the mothers of the control group (P=0.001 and f=21.194). The results of the Bonferroni test and the comparison of means show that the average score of quality of life in the group of mothers with children with autism was higher than the group of mothers with children with separation anxiety disorder (P=0.012). Conclusion: Emotion regulation training is effective on the quality of life of mothers of children with autism and separation anxiety disorder, and it is recommended for mothers with children with neurodevelopmental disorders and attachment disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Identifying related and influencing factors on marital satisfaction is of particular necessity and importance. It seems that attachment styles and loneliness are among the factors affecting marital satisfaction. Aim: The present study aimed to determine the structural relationships between attachment styles and marital satisfaction with the mediation of loneliness. Methods: The research method was descriptive-correlational and the statistical population of this study included all women and men who were referred to family counseling centers in Ilam City in 2019 with complaints of marital problems of which 320 people were selected by convenience sampling method. To collect data Adult Attachment Questionnaire by Simpson (1990), ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (1993) and The University of California Loneliness Scale (1996) were used. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS .24 and Amos. 24. Results: In the present study, the results showed that loneliness and marital satisfaction had a negative and significant relationship (β=-.258, P=.001). Avoidant attachment (β=-.189, P=.001) and anxious attachment (β=-.138, P=.001) and marital satisfaction had a negative and significant relationship. Loneliness in the relationship between secure attachment (β=.149, P=.001), anxiety (β=-.043, P=.048) and avoidance (β=-.140, P=.001) and marital satisfaction had a mediating role. Conclusion: The results showed that loneliness mediates the relationship between secure, anxious and avoidant attachment and marital satisfaction. Therefore, it is suggested that couples and family therapists, in counseling and couple therapy, to increase marital satisfaction, should also pay attention to people's attachment styles manifestations and feelings of loneliness caused by it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Marriage satisfaction is one of the main determinants of the quality of life of each person, and marital satisfaction can predict the stability and instability of a relationship. Aim: This research was conducted with the aim of developing a model of marital satisfaction based on marital expectations, emotional maturity and aspects of love by mediating marital conflicts in married women. Methods: The descriptive data collection method was correlational. The current study's statistical population was comprised of all married women who referred to the community centers of Tehran in 1401, and 550 by the available sampling method people were selected from among them. In this research, Enrich's (1998) marital satisfaction tools, Miller and Tedder's (2011) expectations from married life, Singh and Bhargava's (1991) emotional maturity, Barati, and Sanai Zaker's (1375) marital conflicts, and Sternberg's love triangle (1989) were used. Structural equation modeling method and SPSS and PLS software were used for data analysis. Results: The findings of the research showed that marital expectations and emotional maturity and dimensions of love had a significant effect on marital satisfaction directly and indirectly due to marital conflicts (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the research findings, marital satisfaction is influenced by marital expectations, emotional maturity, and aspects of lovemaking. It is suggested to researchers and therapists to examine marital expectations, emotional maturity and the dimensions of love and subsequent marital conflicts in preventing and planning treatment for couples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Oral health literacy plays an important role in reducing oral health disparities. Evaluation of oral health literacy can be done at individual and population levels. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating oral health literacy among students of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2023. Materials and Methods: This study was descriptive, applied and cross-sectional. The research population included the students of different academic levels of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, except the final semester students. The sample size was calculated based on the total number of students studying at different levels at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in the second half of the academic year in 2023 using an appropriate statistical formula. Sampling was done in a stratified-random manner according to faculty, field, and level of education. The oral health literacy of the participants based on education level, age, and gender was measured by the oral health literacy adult questionnaire (OHL Adults Questionnaire: OHL-AQ). Data analysis was done using SPSS 27 software and descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, percentage), independent ttest, Kruskal-Wallis, and Tukey test. Results: The findings indicated that the average oral health literacy score of students was 14.75±1.37. Also, there was a statistically significant relationship between the average oral health literacy score of students and the parameters of education level, gender, and age of students (P-value < 0.05). This indictaed that the oral health literacy of students increased in the doctoral level and also with increasing age. In addition, the female students had higher oral health literacy. Conclusion: Based on the results, the oral health literacy among Shiraz medical students was high. People with higher education level and age had higher level of oral and dental health literacy than people with lower education level and age. Oral and dental health literacy level was higher in girls than boys. It can be suggested that a 1) suitable platform be provided in order to improve the level of education of the society, leading to the improvement of the oral health literacy of the people; 2) regular dental examinations in order to increase the oral health literacy of the society is encouraged and promoted, especially in lower year students; and 3) research in effective training in the field of oral health literacy to increase the oral health literacy of people in the society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The ability of cockroaches to transmit pathogenic agents to food makes them a threat to the country's food security in terms of use in war and biological terror. In this research, the identification of cockroaches (Blattodea), their geographic distribution, and establishment potential in date warehouses of six important date-growing provinces of Iran, including Kerman, Fars, Khuzestan, Sistan and Baluchistan, Bushehr, and Hormozgan, were carried out to their risk predict. Methods: The statistical method of factor analysis was used to investigate the variance between several dependent variables based on their description in terms of a few latent variables (factors) effective on the type of population distribution. The cluster analysis was performed using a hierarchical method and its accuracy was evaluated using linear detection techniques and a generalization of Fisher's linear discriminator. Results: Three species of cockroaches, including the American cockroach Periplaneta americana, the eastern cockroach Blatta orientalis, and the German cockroach Blattella germanica, are active in Iran's date-producing areas. The highest distribution of these cockroaches was in (Kerman, Fars, and Bushehr), (Kerman and Sistan and Baluchistan), (Khuzestan and Sistan and Baluchistan), (Khuzestan and Sistan and Baluchistan), Bushehr and Fars, respectively. The highest relative establishment rate was found in the provinces of Sistan and Baluchistan, Hormozgan, and Khuzestan. The largest unexploited habitat niche was in Hormozgan province, related to the German cockroach. The unanticipated outbreak chance of cockroaches in the warehouses of that province increases with the index of the unexploited habitat niche in that province. Conclusion: Early detection to prevent the spread of the biological agent is a passive defense against the biological threat. The results of this research are essential in analyzing the risk of cockroaches and determining the hazards caused by them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Considering to the new conditions compared to the traditional concept, military training courses should be designed in such a way that becomes efficient, effective, and works properly and practical. In contrast, their physical training develops from other types of aspects such as metabolic and hormonal. Resistance exercise (RE) with different types of military and training equipments, such as gas masks, and training masks that performs with a low intensity, results in different physiological responses and effects. Therefore, the main goal of this research was to study the effect of two types of military and training masks during resistance sports exercise on lactate and growth hormone responses in the AJA simulated training program. Methods: In this study, the case-crossover method was used. Twelve military personnel trained (with an average age of 27.75 ± 6.45 years and a body mass index of 25.41 ± 3.43 kg/m²) were randomly chosen and examined in three different physiological training methods: traditional (control) training (Intensity: 1RM 75%), training with military and training masks (1RM 30%). The RE consisted of performing 4 squat movements with a total of 65 repetitions. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after the workout. The data were analyzed using the two-way analysis of variance method with repeated measurements, with SPSS software (version 23) at a significance level of P<0.05. Results: All three types of exercise caused a significant increase in lactate (P<0.05) and no increase in growth hormone except the traditional method immediately after the exercise, but there was a significant difference between the groups in the amount of lactate, but not in the amount of growth hormone (P<0.05). Conclusion: Studies have shown that both methods of resistance sports activity with a military mask and exercise such as routine resistance activity can cause a significant increase in blood lactate after exercise. This research confirms the effectiveness of this type of training on lactate increase response and can meet the goals expected from high-intensity training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Given the significant relationship between muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and muscle strength, the primary objective for athletes involved in resistance training is to enhance muscle mass and strength. Proper manipulation of training variables such as intensity, volume, frequency, exercise selection, rest interval, and tempo are essential for maximizing exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy. The present study examined the effects of weekly variations in resistance training on muscle thickness (MT) and strength adaptations in young men. Methods: This research included 30 participants (age: 21.37 ± 1.37 years, height: 174.48 ± 3.34 cm, weight: 72.13 ± 3.45 kg). They were randomly assigned into varying training groups whose training routine changed every week (VAR) or traditional training groups that did not change (TRAD) for ten weeks. For the VAR group training weeks were labeled as adaptation, metabolic stress, mechanical tension, muscle damage, and de-load week 2 cycles of this change occurred through the training intervention for them, but the TRAD group training routine did not change through the study. Results: Both the TRAD and VAR groups showed significant increases in the MT of the biceps brachii muscle (BB) (VAR: P = 0.001; TRAD: P = 0.007), significant differences were observed between groups (P = 0.012). Vastus lateralis (VL) MT increased significantly in both groups (P = 0.001), no significant difference was observed between the two groups (P>0.05). Among the groups, lean body mass (LBM) increased significantly (P = 0.001), TRAD group showed a significant decrease in body fat (P = 0.49), there was no significant change in BMI of both groups (P>0.05). Both groups showed significant increase in bench press and back squat 1-RM strength test (P = 0.001). Back squat showed a trivial non-significant difference between the groups (P = 0.072). Conclusion: The results showed that changing resistance training methods weekly was more effective than traditional resistance training for biceps hypertrophy. Nevertheless, the effects of VAR and TRAD exercises are similar in the case of the latissimus dorsi muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Veterans are one of the sections of society that suffer various injuries in different dimensions of life due to physical problems, therefore their quality of life is affected more than any other factor. Therefore, the present research was conducted to investigate the model of predicting the quality of life of veterans based on schema modes, moral injury, and existential anxiety. Methods: The current research is descriptive and correlational type. The statistical population studied included all the veterans covered by Shahid Foundation of Isfahan, and 320 veterans were selected from that. Quality of life questionnaire, schema modes, questionnaire, moral injury questionnaire, and existential anxiety questionnaire were used to measure research variables. Finally, the data were analized in SPSS software version 24, Lisrel version 11, and Amos version 26. Results: The model for predicting the quality of life of veterans based on schema modes, moral injury, and existential anxiety is appropriate (P>0.01). Therefore, based on the results, it can be stated that the most important effective, and significant factor that has reduced the quality of life of the veterans in the 8 years of the holy defense is existential anxiety. Conclusion: According to the results of the research, it can be inferred that by examining and developing treatment packages to reduce existential anxiety, it is possible to help improve the quality of life of veterans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Emotion regulation is an important and determining factor in psychological wellbeing and effective behavior of people, which plays an essential role in adapting to stressful life events. People who experience emotion dysregulation may show symptoms such as impulsive behaviors, severe anxiety, aggression, and problems with metacognition. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of the brain in improving emotion dysregulation and the speed of brain information processing. Methods: This study is pre-post-test research. In this study, 20 healthy participants (male, right-handed) were used. The participants were randomly assigned to two anodal stimulation groups and sham (control) groups. By completing the ERQ and DTS questionnaires, as well as performing the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) before and after electrical stimulation of the brain by the HD-tDCS method in the L-DLPFC area, this study was followed up and carried out. Results: After the intervention (stimulation) in the pre-post test comparison between the stimulation group and the control group, there was a difference in terms of evaluation variables, suppression, being absorbed by negative emotions, regulating efforts to relieve distress, the number of correct answers in the PASAT test and the time to answer the PASAT test. There was significance (P<0.05). This shows the effectiveness of the intervention (anodal stimulation) on these components between the stimulation and control groups. However, there was no significant difference between the stimulation and control groups in terms of emotional distress tolerance, subjective estimation of distress, and the number of incorrect answers in the PASAT test (P>0.05). Also, in the comparison of the pre-post test, time was not recognized as a significant factor in any of the research components. Conclusion: High-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) improves some components of emotion dysregulation and also improves brain information processing speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Nowadays, the requirement of any policy-making at the national and regional level is to know the level of knowledge of people about oral health and ways to prevent dental caries. This study examined the habits, actions and economic level of elementary school students in Qazvin city in 2017-2018. Also, the effects of peer group social network on behaviors related to oral health and obesity was investigated in order to find the way for interventions making it more effective in this social group. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 145 students participated. They were in the 3nd and 6th grades of elementary school in the academic year of 2017-2018. The questionnaire used in this study had 20 questions and 4 main sections. The main parts of this questionnaire included demographic characteristics, behavior and habits related to oral health, oral health knowledge of students and families, and socio-economic status. Data were collected through clinical examinations and through valid questionnaires and evaluated using SPSS and Excel software. Results: According to the results of Pearson's correlation analysis, a significant correlation was observed between the health knowledge scores of individuals and their friends between both groups of casual and close friends (P<0.01). The correlation between the knowledge of individuals and close friends was significantly stronger (P<0.01). Also, there was a significant relationship between socio- economic status and behaviors related to oral health (P<0.05). There was also a significant positive relationship between the number of times close friends brushing their teeth in a social network (P<0.001). This connection was not observed in the friends’ network. Conclusion: This study determined that close friends can be effective in determining the oral hygiene behaviors of elementary school students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the most sensitive periods of a person's life, which has a great impact on his future health, is the fetal period, while the risk of infection in children of mothers who are positive in terms of HBsAg serum level is very high. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B infection in Iranian pregnant women. Materials and Methods: This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis by examining Scientific Information Database (SID), Medline (PubMed), ScienceDirect and Google Scholar until February 2024. Results: In a review of 45 studies with a sample size of 77,641 pregnant women, based on meta-analysis, the prevalence of hepatitis B infection in Iranian pregnant women was reported to be 1.1% (95% CI: 0.9-1.4 %), meta-regression results showed that with increasing The sample size, the prevalence of hepatitis B infection in Iranian pregnant women decreased (P<0.05) and also with the increase in the years of conducting studies, the prevalence of hepatitis B infection in Iranian pregnant women decreased (P<0.05) and also with the increasing age of women. pregnant, the prevalence of hepatitis B infection increases in Iranian pregnant women (P=0.133). Conclusion: The results of the present study show that the prevalence of hepatitis B infection in Iranian pregnant women is not at a high level, but according to the meta-regression analysis, which shows the effect of age at the same time as the increase of this infection in women, it is necessary to continue preventive measures and reach The lower levels of attention of health policy makers in this area should be directed to carry out extensive information and screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to develop a learning-based model of organizational entrepreneurship, utilizing structural equation modeling, within the context of Iran’s health insurance organization. Methods: The study’s statistical population consisted of all managers and employees of the Iran Health Insurance Organization, estimated to be 500 individuals. Using the Cochran equation, 217 individuals were randomly selected as a statistical sample. Data was collected via a researchermade questionnaire consisting of 86 items. Thirty experts confirmed the questionnaire’s face and content validity, and its reliability exceeded 0.7 in a preliminary test with 30 subjects across all variables under investigation. Descriptive statistics methods were employed for data analysis using SPSS version 22 software, while inferential statistics were conducted using structural equation modeling in Smart PLS version 2 software. Results: The study’s findings showed that causal factors significantly influence the central phenomenon and that the background factors, the central phenomenon, and intervening factors all impact the strategies employed. Furthermore, these organizational strategies influence the consequences. Specifically, an increase of 1 unit in strategies results in an increase of 0.919 in consequences. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, it can be inferred that organizational learning enhances creativity and fosters the generation of knowledge and new ideas. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the impact of causal factors on the central phenomenon, the role of contextual factors, and the influence of intervening factors on strategies, which subsequently affect the consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Depression is one of the most common psychological disorders that can affect a person’s mood and change his/her perception of the self and environment. Melilotus officinalis L. plant contains effective substances and antioxidant compounds. Objective The present study aims to investigate the antidepressant effects of alcoholic extract of Melilotus officinalis L. in male rats. Methods In this experimental research, 42 male rats were divided into six groups of 7 including control (normal saline), negative control (reserpine), positive control (reserpine+fluoxetine) and three reserpine groups treated by intraperitoneal injection of 100, 200, 400 mg/kg doses of alcoholic extract of Melilotus officinalis L. Behavioral tests including forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were used to evaluate depression, and the antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde level were also measured. The data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 20 using one-way analysis of variance. The significance level was set at P<0.05. Results The 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg doses of alcoholic extract significantly reduced the duration of immobility in the FST compared to the negative control. In the TST, the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg showed a significant increase compared to the negative control. The doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly increased the antioxidant capacity of the brain compared to the negative control. The doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced the antioxidant capacity of the brain compared to the negative control. Conclusion The alcoholic extract of Melilotus officinalis L has antidepressant effects similar to fluoxetine probably due to its antioxidant compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Herb shops are important for preparing medicinal plants. Improper packaging can lead to contamination of these plants by various types of microorganisms, fungi and yeasts. Objective This study aims to investigate the prevalence of microbial and fungal contamination in four plants from the Lamiaceae family in herb shops in Rasht, Iran. Methods In this study, 15 samples from mint, rosemary, and wild mint plants, and 16 samples from lemon balm were collected. The samples were diluted and incubated for one hour, then transferred onto Tryptic soy agar culture medium for bacterial enumeration. The sabouraud dextrose agar culture medium was used to count total mold and yeast, while McConkey Broth culture medium was used for specific identification of Escherichia coli. Data analysis was conducted in SPSS software, version 16. For comparing the bacterial and fungal contamination levels in the plant samples with the Pharmacopeial quality standard values, the non-parametric Wilcoxon signed rank test was used. Results Out of 61 plant samples, 59 (73.7%) were contaminated with bacteria, and 60 samples (86.6%) were contaminated with fungi. The number of samples contaminated with Escherichia coli was 27 (44.2%). The mean counts of bacteria and fungi in the plant samples were 3.39×105 and 6.3×105, respectively. Conclusion The microbial contamination in most of the plant samples examined in this study is significantly higher than the permissible limit. It is necessary for health authorities to implement stricter policies for monitoring the quality of natural products in herb shops of Rasht, Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Nasal septal abscess, which is the collection of purulent materials between the cartilaginous or bony septum and the mucoperichondrium or mucoperiosteum, often occurs after septal hematoma caused by trauma. Other common factors include surgery, foreign bodies, and sinusitis. In addition to the risk of nasal deformity, septal abscess can cause life-threatening complications such as osteomyelitis, orbital or intracerebral abscess. Objective This study aims to investigate the frequency of nasal septal abscess and its related factors in patients in north of Iran. Methods In this descriptive cross-sectional study on the patients referred to a hospital in north of Iran in 2022. Their demographic and disease-related information were recorded and the risk factors were finally identified. Results In this study, 37 patients had septal abscess. The most common risk factor identified was a history of septoplasty or septorhinoplasty (35.1%), followed by diabetes mellitus (21.6%). Surprisingly, one of the factors in these patients was cauterization for epistaxis treatment (n=6). All patients were treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics and surgical drainage. In five patients, abscess resulted in saddle nose deformity. Positive culture results were reported in five samples. Conclusion Early identification of nasal septal abscess and its risk factors can help control the disease and prevent its serious complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background It is necessary to provide safe care for patients with acute and life-threatening conditions by nurses working in the emergency departments (EDs). These nurses need higher levels of independent performance. Therefore, the competency to provide safe care and having professional nursing autonomy in novice nurses working in the EDs are very important. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between professional nursing autonomy and safe nursing care in newly graduated nurses working in the EDs. Methods In this analytical cross-sectional study, the study population consists of all newly graduated nurses working in EDs of hospitals in Guilan, Iran. They all were included in the study using a census sampling method. The tools for collecting information were a demographic form, the assessment of safe nursing care questionnaire, and the professional nursing autonomy scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics (independent t-test, Spearman or Pearson correlation test, and linear regression analysis) were used to analyze the collected data. Results There was a significant relationship between professional nursing autonomy and safe nursing care; for every one unit increase in professional autonomy, the chance of providing safe nursing care increases by 0.133 (P=0.009). Conclusion The significant relationship of professional nursing autonomy with safe nursing care among the EDS nurses shows that if nurses have a greater control over their performance, decision-making ability, and autonomy to act based on patient safety, they can provide better quality care to patients. Therefore, empowering nurses by providing conditions to perform based on professional autonomy, can ultimately lead to better results for the patients and cause overall safety in the EDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]